(ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Oct. 15, 2011) On Friday, Oct. 19, Chief Judge Robert M. Bell of the Maryland Court of Appeals will salute students who have used their artistic talents to promote peace. The young artists will gather with their families, friends and supporters at 4 p.m. in the lobby of the Courts of Appeal Building in Annapolis to be honored as winners of the Maryland Judiciary’s Conflict Resolution Day Student Bookmark Art Contest. The media is invited to attend.

This is the seventh year for the popular art contest. This year, a record-breaking 1,209 entries were received from Maryland children in kindergarten through eighth grade -- more than double last year’s entries. All the artwork will be unveiled at the reception and will be on display throughout the lobby Oct. 19-Nov. 30.

During the reception, Judge Bell will acknowledge the winners and present awards. The Judiciary website has a list of the winners, including school name and location.

Prizes are awarded for first, second, and third place in three age groups: kindergarten-second grade; third-fifth grade; and sixth-eighth grade. The prize for each age group is: $75 for first place; $50 for second place; and $25 for third place. In addition to the prizes, three to five entries may be selected to be printed as bookmarks to promote conflict resolution across Maryland.

Call the Office of Communications and Public Affairs, 410-260-1488, to attend. Cameras and electronic recording devices will be allowed; media is expected to obtain releases from families, as necessary, for use/publication.